PSHS places in ‘You Can Play, Colorado!’ contest

The Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) has announced the winners of its inaugural “You Can Play, Colorado!” contest — a program focused on stopping bullying and delivering messages of inclusion and acceptance for all students participating in high school activities such as sports, speech, music and student leadership.

“Our ‘You Can Play, Colorado!’ program challenged students, teams, clubs and groups to create videos that focused on accepting their classmates solely for what they might bring to a team or an activity — and ensuring that no one is excluded for what some might see as differences,” said CHSAA Commissioner Paul Angelico.

“The students who submitted videos exceeded our expectations and all of Colorado should be proud of these schools! CHSAA has learned important lessons about supporting our members’ commitment to positive leadership and we look forward to the future of our ‘We Are CHSAA’ campaign.”

Videos were submitted from every region across Colorado. A judging panel reviewed each video and selected several schools to receive prize money toward their school programs.

The Grand Prize recipient was Grandview High School from the Cherry Creek School District.

Tying for second place were Pagosa Springs High School, Holyoke Senior High School and Liberty Junior/High School (Town of Joes).

“You Can Play, Colorado!” is part of the “We Are CHSAA” positive leadership campaign, an educational experience — in partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance, You Can Play and the Gay & Lesbian Fund for Colorado — dedicated to ensuring that all students are encouraged to participate and be accepted for what they bring to a team or activity, and not excluded for what some might see as differences.